BEING of a certain age I have a tendency to do that ‘it was better in the old days’ stuff like what could better the classic names of Pele and Jairzinho?

However, the fixation of Brazilian footballers to have just a nickname has taken us down a very interesting path recently.

Comics, cartoons and even children’s television programmes are now reference points for those in yellow and blue seeking a unique moniker.

Against England on Sunday Brazil turned out replete with Fred, from the Flintstones, the Marvel Comics’ favourite Hulk, and Oscar, from Sesame Street.

In the near future this means we can eagerly await the appearance of Wilma, Betty and Barney joining Fred, while Big Bird and Cookie Monster can line-up with Oscar, and Iron Man, Spider-Man and Captain America (possibly not suitable) can operate alongside Hulk.

I am hoping that I live long enough to see a Brazil side with a cutting edge midfield of Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po.